Kitchen Sink Plumbing - Several Questions

[Corwin]

Hello All -

First post here. We are renting a house in California (Pacifica) and I'd like to redo the kitchen sink plumbing, which, as you can see from the photo, is in serious need of repair. The landlord will reimburse for materials, etc., but that's not the concern. The concern I have is that I'm not sure how to correctly reconfigure the plumbing. I'm sure it's not correct as is, but what do I need to do? I plan to use ABS rather than PVC, as I think it looks cleaner, but have no other thoughts on the repairs.

The disposal clogs and backs up easily under the current configuration, but I'm not sure if the disposal or the installation is to blame. There are also several leaks from around the p-trap and other areas, causing unpleasant odors from beneath the sink.

I'd greatly appreciate your help as I attempt to tackle this project. Thanks!

 

[Terry]

If the disposer is older than 8 years, that could be your problem. Blades wear, and they no longer dice the food up. They become peelers instead of dicers.
I would start with the disposer.
It also may be that the waste is running uphill from the p-trap.
I see nothing wrong with PVC piping like that with slip joints. If you glue ABS there, and the line plugs, you will have to cut it out. That's way too much trouble

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Corwin]

Thanks, Terry. I will do as you suggest and start with the disposal. Is there a particular horsepower that's recommended for general home use? I may also replace the existing PVC slip fittings if you think it would be useful to do so. Thanks again.

 

[Terry]

My starter disposer is a Badger Five by Insinkerator. This would work for you.
An upgrade would be the Insinkerator Pro Compact. Better dicing and quieter.

 

[hj]

There is no reason to "replace" the slip fittings, unless they have accumulated a coating on their inside surfaces that is creating an odor, which often happens with plastic. They also make ABS slip fittings if you prefer the black color.